Chaz Bono Comes Out as Transgender

Chaz Bono (formerly Chastity Bono), the child of singers Sonny and Cher and former Director of Entertainment Media at GLAAD, announced today that he has made the decision to transition from female to male.

Chaz Bono

TMZ broke the news earlier today with a statement released through publicist Howard Bragman:

"He is proud of his decision and grateful for the support and respect that has already been shown by his loved ones. It is Chaz's hope that his choice to transition will open the hearts and minds of the public regarding this issue, just as his 'coming out' did nearly 20 years ago.

We ask that the media respect Chaz's privacy during this long process as he will not be doing any interviews at this time."

Following the news, GLAAD President Neil Giuliano released this statement:

“Chaz Bono's decision to live his life authentically represents an important step forward, both for him personally and for all who are committed to advancing discussions about fairness and equality for transgender people," said Neil G. Giuliano, president of the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD). "Coming out as transgender is an extremely personal decision and one that is never made lightly. We look forward to hearing Chaz's story in his own words in the future."

“GLAAD encourages media outlets to cover this story accurately, and to avoid speculation about the details of Chaz’s story before he is ready to share them.”